Top Destinations Indian Tourists Flock To in 2025

Ever wondered which places Indian travelers are packing their suitcases for this year? In the last few years, outbound trips have surged, and a handful of spots keep topping the list. Below is a straight‑forward look at where most Indian tourists go, why they love these places, and how you can make the most of a similar journey.

Outbound travel snapshot (2023‑2025)

Indian tourists are a rapidly growing segment of global travelers. According to the Ministry of Tourism, outbound departures rose from 10.6million in 2023 to an estimated 13.1million in 2024, a 23% jump. The average spend per traveler climbed to US$1,400, driven by higher airfare connectivity and more disposable income.

Two trends dominate the data: short‑haul trips to neighboring Asian hubs and long‑haul leisure journeys to the Middle East and Europe. The rise of e‑visas and low‑cost carriers like Air India Express and IndiGo has made last‑minute getaways a realistic option for families and solo adventurers alike.

Leading international destinations

When you look at the numbers, a clear pattern emerges. The top five overseas spots for Indian travelers in 2025 are:

• Dubai - United Arab Emirates
• Bangkok - Thailand
• Singapore - Singapore
• Maldives - Maldives
• London - United Kingdom

Dubai leads by a wide margin, drawing over 2.8million Indian visitors in 2024 - roughly 21% of all outbound arrivals. Its mix of shopping festivals, desert experiences, and easy visa rules (visa‑on‑arrival for most Indian passport holders) makes it a low‑friction choice.

Bangkok follows closely with 2.2million arrivals. Thai hospitality, affordable street food, and a vibrant nightlife scene appeal especially to young adults and couples on a budget.

Singapore, while smaller in visitor count (1.6million), scores high on business‑leisure combos. Its strict pandemic protocols have built a reputation for safety, and the city‑state’s efficient public transport eases navigation for first‑time travelers.

The Maldives, a luxury beach destination, attracts high‑spending travelers - average spend per Indian tourist exceeds US$2,500, largely on over‑water resorts.

London remains the top European pick, pulling in 1.1million Indian tourists. Historical ties, world‑class museums, and extensive flight options from Indian metros keep the capital on the radar.

Domestic hotspots that never lose charm

While overseas adventures are tempting, many Indian travelers still favor home‑grown experiences. Here are the five domestic regions that dominate inbound numbers:

• Goa - beaches, nightlife, Portuguese heritage
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• Kerala - backwaters, Ayurveda, spice plantations
• Rajasthan - forts, deserts, royal palaces
• Himachal Pradesh - hill stations, adventure sports
• Andaman & Nicobar Islands - pristine coral reefs, secluded beaches

Goa leads domestic inbound traffic with 5.4million Indian tourists in 2024, driven by its relaxed vibe and easy connectivity from major airports like Mumbai and Delhi.

Kerala’s “God’s Own Country” slogan still works. The state recorded 4.9million Indian visitors, many of whom combine a houseboat cruise with wellness treatments.

Rajasthan’s royal allure pulls 4.2million travelers, who often combine Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur into a single circuit.

Why these places win the vote

Understanding the why helps you replicate the success. Five core factors shape Indian travelers’ decisions:

1. Visa convenience: Nations offering e‑visa or visa‑on‑arrival (UAE, Thailand, Maldives) see higher footfall. The hassle of applying for a traditional visa still deters many.
2. Cost‑effectiveness: Flight deals, affordable accommodation, and favorable exchange rates matter. Thailand’s “Bangkok Budget” packages and Goa’s mid‑range hotels fit the sweet spot.
3. Cultural resonance: Destinations with familiar food (e.g., Indian restaurants in Dubai), language support (English‑speaking staff), or shared historical ties (UK) feel safer.
4. Adventure & relaxation mix: Families seek beaches, couples look for romantic sunsets, while millennials crave nightlife. Places like the Maldives (luxury) and Himachal (adventure) cater to both extremes.
5. Connectivity: Direct flights from Indian metros reduce travel time. Dubai, Bangkok, and Singapore each have multiple daily departures, shaving off hours of layovers.

Planning tips for Indian travelers

Now that you know where people go, here’s a quick guide to making your own trip smoother:

• Check visa requirements early: For UAE and Thailand, apply for e‑visa at least 7days before departure. The process usually takes 48hours.
• Book during off‑peak weeks: Mid‑January to early March and late‑September to early November offer lower hotel rates and milder weather in most top destinations.
• Use credit card offers: Many Indian banks partner with airlines for discount codes. Look for ‘Airline X + Bank Y’ combos that shave up to 15% off fare.
• Pack smart for climate: Light cotton for Dubai’s desert days, a rain jacket for Bangkok’s monsoon evenings, and a warm layer for Himachal’s evenings.
• Leverage local payment apps: Apps like Paytm, Google Pay, and local equivalents (e.g., Alipay in Singapore) save on currency conversion fees.

Quick reference: Top international destinations (2024 data)

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